Google’s Dark Side: 5 search terms to avoid at all cost
Ever Google search for coupons or promo codes? You’ll probably waste 15 minutes putting in codes that don’t work. At worst, you’ll end up on a malware-infected site. Use these proven tricks to save money instead.
Streaming is expensive, so you might be tempted to look up free TV shows or movies. Don’t do it. There are seriously sketchy sites out there. I put together a list of ways to get free movies and shows you can trust.
It doesn’t end there — not even close. How can a simple Google search be dangerous? Keep reading.
SEO poisoning and scammy ads
Google anything and you get pages of search results. At the very top are the “Sponsored Results.” These are paid ads businesses use to drive traffic to their websites.
Google doesn’t vet everyone who buys an ad. Cybercrooks can buy ads just like trustworthy companies — except they hide nasty malware on their sites. Scammers are getting good at SEO, so their malicious search results are at the top of the organic results.
So, what terms should you avoid? Sadly, there’s a whole lot. Let’s focus on five that could do some real damage.
1. Free credit report
There are legitimate ways to get a free credit report. But cybercriminals go after the juiciest search terms and think about all they can get their hands on if you think it’s a site you can trust.
The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act requires the three credit reporting agencies (Transunion, Experian, and Equifax) to provide U.S. consumers with a free annual credit report. There are a variety of ways you can request a copy of your annual report from each agency:
- Online: www.AnnualCreditReport.com
- Phone: 1-877-FACTACT (1-877-322-8228)
If you want to send by mail, download and complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form, then send it to:
Tech is expensive! Ways you’re wasting money and smart fixes to save
Look around your house. How much do you think you have spent on gadgets and tech subscriptions over the years?
With shiny new gear popping up daily and yet another streaming service there to woo you, it’s hard to stop the flow of cash. I can help. Here are all the best ways to scan without shelling out money for a scanner. You’re welcome.
Tech smarts: 5 silly ways you’re flushing money down the toilet
For a columnist and national radio show host focused on technology, you might be surprised how often I’m asked about money.
It makes sense. We spend a ton of money on gadgets, and there’s always something new and shiny. Before you spring for a new phone, give yours this deep clean. You’ll be surprised what a difference it makes.
8 Memorial Day tech deals you can't afford to miss
It’s Memorial Day weekend and we’d like to begin by thanking everyone who has served in the U.S. military. So, thank you!
Now, with Memorial Day picnics and parades, we’ve also come to expect another major seasonal milestone: Memorial Day sales. You don’t even have to leave the comfort of your home to score these awesome tech deals.
Money-saving trick: The only online coupon finder you need
Who doesn’t love to save when shopping online? There are great deals all over the web if you look hard enough — but what if there was a way to skim a few more dollars off your total before checking out?
That’s where coupons come in. Most retailers offer coupons or promo codes throughout the year, but not everyone knows where to find them. Even worse, sometimes they’re exclusive to certain mailing lists or campaigns, which makes them even harder to locate.